The project was financed by Big Local, an institution that already supports the participation of citizens in community schemes in 150 locations around England. The present development was designed for local residents of all ages and is used for community activities of many different kinds, ranging from drumming lessons for pre-schoolers and workshops for schoolchildren to readings for senior citizens and even jumble sales.
The building consists of nine former changing rooms. These elements, comprising steel frames clad with plywood, were laid out anew and linked with an additional steel construction. The double-height main space consists of two units set on top of each other. In addition, the containers, which were originally built only for the summer months, have been fitted out with insulation and ventilation to comply with the energy standards laid down by regulations for new buildings.
Local residents were involved in the design of the facade, which was constructed partly from the fence of the Olympic site, to which recycled aluminium sheeting has been fixed. Measures were implemented to ensure that the existing materials were used as systematically as possible. For example, doors were simply built in as windows. Internally, too, it was part of the concept to show the origins and purpose of building components. All service runs are exposed, therefore. Other internal elements demonstrate the enthusiasm and support shown by residents. The colourful chandelier in the main space was designed and fabricated by a school group, and the lamps are the work of local artists.
